We do a different kind of beach here. Not for us the calm, placid pond in baby-blue. Uh-uh. Our waters are a little livelier. With few reefs, the waters off the North Coast can kick up some rather playful waves (surfers like Toco, especially). It’s not unknown for a bikini-wearing bather to lose their top to pummelling surf. Maracas Bay, especially, is one of the beaches most beloved by locals for its sprightly waves, misty mountains and food stalls. Great for jumping, ducking, body-surfing and boogy-boarding, Maracas is usually a refreshing workout that guarantees you – and the kids – a good night’s sleep.

Along with Maracas, Las Cuevas and Blanchicheusse are two of the other most popular north coast beaches, though the Atlantic waters can get rough (and chilly) between November and April. The north and northeast coasts also boast the greatest concentration of accommodation, ranging from private beach houses to all-inclusive resorts. But that’s when the northeast, in direct path of the northeast trades, becomes are surf country. Because of the current, be sure to check with locals for advice on the safest bathing areas.

The beaches of the east coast, onto which break the waves from the Atlantic Ocean, are a stark contrast to the popular north coast beaches. The currents at Mayaro and Manzanilla are stronger, and it’s unwise to go swimming. West coast beaches are much calmer, sheltered by the Gulf of Paria.

However inviting they may look, it’s best to avoid the beaches in the Chaguaramas area, with the exception of Macqueripe, due to the preponderence of yachts and industry in the area. The same goes for beaches in the southwest and southeast of the island, as the oil and petrochemical industries can sometimes contaminate otherwise pristine beaches.

For a list of beaches in Trinidad visit our top beaches page:

Beaches

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